Houston voters approve removal of fluoride from drinking water

HOUSTON, Mo. — Voters in the city of Houston have approved the removal of fluoride from the city’s water supply.

The measure to continue the practice failed 482-292. The measure was approved for the ballot by the city council at their May 21 meeting.

Several public meetings on the topic were held in the weeks prior to the initiative being approved for the November ballot. Detractors say fluoride causes a darkening of the teeth and that studies touting the benefits of fluoride are lacking.

Those in favor of keeping fluoridated water say the chemical helps fight cavities and tooth decay.